Hailey sat at her desk, staring at the notes for tomorrow's press conference.
The words blurred together on the page, refusing to form coherent thoughts.
"Focus," Hailey muttered to herself. "Just focus."
But her mind kept wandering to the confrontation waiting for her that evening.
Walter knocked on the door frame, poking his head in.
"How's it going?" Walter asked, his voice concerned.
"Fine," Hailey lied, looking up with a forced smile.
"That's not very convincing," Walter said, stepping inside.
"I know," Hailey admitted with a sigh. "I'm just distracted."
"About tonight?" Walter asked.
Hailey nodded slowly.
"You don't have to go alone," Walter offered. "I can come with you."
"No," Hailey said firmly. "I need to do this myself."
Walter studied her face for a moment.
"Alright," Walter said finally. "But call me when you're done."
"I will," Hailey promised.
